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Description
Watsonia Tabularis is a perennial plant that belongs to the Iridaceae family. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the Giant Bugle Lily. It grows up to 1.8 meters tall and 0.6 meters wide, and produces tall spikes of white, pink, or purple flowers from late spring to early summer. Watsonia Tabularis is a stunning addition to any garden and is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as a cut flower.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Watsonia |
Appearance
Watsonia Tabularis has long, narrow, sword-shaped leaves that are green and slightly twisted. The flowers are arranged in a spike that can reach up to 1 meter in height. Each flower is about 5 cm in diameter and has six petals that are fused at the base. The flowers can be white, pink, or purple with yellow or orange markings in the throat. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, and the flowers last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Watsonia Tabularis is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for your Giant Bugle Lily:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Watsonia Tabularis is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Watsonia Tabularis is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Spider mites and thrips can also be a problem, especially in hot, dry weather. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Watsonia Tabularis is native to South Africa and grows naturally in grasslands and rocky outcrops. It prefers well-draining soil and is adapted to hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. In cultivation, it is best grown in a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Watsonia Tabularis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Watsonia Tabularis can be grown in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Watsonia Tabularis?
A: Fertilize Watsonia Tabularis once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Watsonia Tabularis need to be pruned?
A: No, Watsonia Tabularis does not need to be pruned. Simply remove any dead or yellowing leaves as needed.
Q: When is the best time to plant Watsonia Tabularis?
A: The best time to plant Watsonia Tabularis is in the spring, after the last frost date in your area.
Related Plants
- Watsonia Meriana
- Watsonia Borbonica
- Watsonia Pillansii
References
- “Watsonia Tabularis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 26, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c695.
- “Watsonia Tabularis.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 26, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/watsonia-tabularis.
- “Watsonia Tabularis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 26, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/56933/i-Watsonia-tabularis-i/Details.
